K9Capers dog training

11/25/2024

There are much better strategies than trying to put your dog in a sit..

Putting your dog in a Sit when they need to move sets up an adversarial relationship with you instead of teamwork.

11/23/2024

Reason #724 for why we use reinforcement based training... care doesn't need to be distressing. How great is this?

11/22/2024

Should you bring your new puppy to the family reunion?

It sounds fun right? But experienced trainers run through a checklist in their head when making decisions like this. It's really important that early experiences are solidly positive and supportive. Too much too soon is just as problematic as not doing enough.

That checklist might look something like:

Has my puppy ridden in the car that long before?
Has my puppy met any dogs that will be there one on one?
Has my puppy met any children that will be there?
Can we leave early if my puppy is overwhelmed?
Can my puppy potty outside of their own yard?
Will someone be available to actively supervise at all times without distraction?
Is my puppy sound or touch sensitive?
Does my puppy have any issues around food?
Is my puppy well rested and feeling well (not teething, etc)?

This is going to vary for every pup and situation, but you get the idea. Socialization exposures should be thoughtful and take the needs of the puppy into consideration. Experiences imprinted at young ages set the pattern for "life rules." A little proactive decision making on behalf of your pup goes a LONG way.

11/17/2024

11/16/2024

Considering getting a dog? No matter if you are narrowing down breed types, or comparing specific breeders the OFA is one of your BEST online starting points if a purebred dog is in your plans. From there you can learn what health issues a breed has, what medical testing is suggested for breeders, and look up specific dogs to make sure they've been tested. Every family deserves a HEALTHY pet, and dogs deserve to live a long and pain free life. Go to the "potential dog owners" section at:

The OFA website and databases provide the tools needed to promote the health and welfare of companion animals through a reduction in the incidence of genetic disease.

11/11/2024

This is one of the very real frustrations for dog trainers. We CAN help you. We CAN show you how to get started. We CAN give you a comprehensive plan to success. We KNOW you don't know what to do and need guidance and coaching. That's why we exist!

But we are not magicians, we can't "fix your dog" in a session, and there is no quick change gear we can just give you to make your problem disappear.

Often we see a client, only to get contacted 2 years later for the same unresolved issue, while the dogs owner says "we've tried everything."

Everything except the comprehensive resolution that could have truly helped you 2 years ago. Now the dog has a LONG history of rehearsal and confusion after having everything changed ten or twenty times by then.

So, are you ready? To put in the work? to follow the plan? To commit to a proven course of action?

We WANT to help you! We WANT to help your dog! We WANT to see you successful. But we can't "fix it now" for you. Regardless of what reality TV and slick social media ads say.

11/04/2024

Does your dog need help managing anxiety frustration or boredom?

Here's my lifestyle checklist to help manage all of those aspects of behavior challenge!

Which of these could your dog use more of in their day?

Reach out if you'd like help implementing!

10/29/2024

Thank you everyone for coming in and making our last day Halloween celebration so special! We had a great time!

10/24/2024

10/24/2024

🤣 Seriously though, does anyone need an extra crate, or to go up a size? I have about 12 or so crates looking to "rehome."

10/22/2024

We are down to our last two day program days! Everyone enrolled is welcome to attend either or both, no matter your regular reservation:

Thursday 10/24, regular hours!

Tuesday 10/29, last day, early close 3:30pm.

10/10/2024

EVERYONE is welcome on 10/29, our last day; even if you do not have a regular Tuesday spot!! Early close 3:30!

10/05/2024

Our first time in the press!